QMI Agency

The team's general manager and head coach Derek Keenan said Thursday that the club has released McElroy, Rush captain and an original member of the squad.

"This was a difficult decision mainly because of the prominent role that Chris had in the community representing the Rush and what a tremendous person he is, but this is a business as well and at this time it is best for the team to move forward," said Keenan. "The work that Chris put in on and off the floor for the Rush was greatly appreciated and the entire organization would like to thank him for those efforts."

"Being that Chris was one of the original Rush players and the significant role he played in bringing professional indoor lacrosse into the hearts of many Edmontonians makes this a very difficult day for me, but I understand that players moving on is part of professional sports," said Rush owner Bruce Urban. "I wish Chris the best and thank him for his tireless efforts and for being an amazing role model for his charitable work."

McElroy, who came to the Rush for the franchise's inaugural season in 2005 via a trade with the Arizona Sting, was limited to just three games during an injury-plagued 2010 NLL campaign.

The 28-year-old transition player went from career highs in points (14) and goals (eight) in 2007 down to just 11 points combined over the next two seasons. The Orillia, Ont., native also worked in the club's front office as the community relations representative, representing the Rush at the 2008 NLL All-Star Game on the home floor at Rexall Place.

During his time with the team, McElroy was one of the most popular players and did charitable work with the Stollery Children's Hospital and Right to Play, as well as youth lacrosse education programs.